Whether you're a lifelong resident of Wyoming or considering a move to the wide-open landscapes and rugged beauty of the Equality State, there's no better time to embark on a nursing career. Nationwide, nursing positions are projected to grow significantly in the coming years, and Wyoming is no exception. By 2030, the state is expected to see steady growth in nursing opportunities, making it an ideal location for those entering the field. If you're ready to take advantage of this trend, the information below will help guide your journey.
2026 Best Nursing Schools in Wyoming
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Wyoming nursing programs have shown relatively stable NCLEX pass rates over recent years, with slight variations indicating consistent performance. The statewide average demonstrates resilience in nursing education quality.- 2022: 82.82% pass rate with 326 total students
- 2023: 95.02% pass rate with 301 total students
- 2024: 94.79% pass rate with 326 total students
Top Performing Schools
Wyoming's top nursing programs demonstrate exceptional NCLEX preparation across multiple years, showcasing consistent educational excellence.- Central Wyoming College: 96.47% average pass rate
- Casper College: 95.21% average pass rate
- University of Wyoming: 93.44% average pass rate
BSN vs ADN Pass Rate Comparison
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs show competitive performance, with BSN programs maintaining a slight edge.- ADN Programs: 94.12% average pass rate, 272 total students
- BSN Programs: 95% average pass rate, 20 total students
Geographic Performance Trends
Wyoming's nursing education performance varies across different cities, with urban centers demonstrating strong NCLEX preparation.- Cheyenne: 95.83% pass rate, 72 total students
- Casper: 100% pass rate, 50 total students
- Sheridan: 89.8% pass rate, 49 total students
- Rock Springs: 91.43% pass rate, 35 total students
- Riverton: 96.67% pass rate, 30 total students
Central Wyoming College
Riverton, WY - Public 4-Year - cwc.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Wyoming College's Associate Degree in Nursing provides an exceptional pathway to becoming a registered nurse, with an impressive NCLEX pass rate consistently ranging from 93.1% to 100% between 2022-2024. This comprehensive 65-credit program delivers rigorous academic preparation through integrated classroom learning, advanced laboratory experiences, and early clinical rotations. Accredited by ACEN, the program demands a competitive 2.5 GPA and requires passing the TEAS entrance exam. Students benefit from hands-on training that begins in the first semester, ensuring practical skill development. Comprehensive admission requirements include immunization documentation and background checks, positioning graduates for immediate workforce entry or seamless transition to BSN programs. The curriculum strategically balances theoretical knowledge with practical nursing competencies.
- 65-credit program
- ACEN accredited
- Starts clinicals first semester
- Requires 2.5 GPA
- TEAS test required
- Immunizations needed
- Background check required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Combines classroom and labs
- Competitive admission
University of Wyoming
Laramie, WY - Public 4-Year - uwyo.edu
Bachelor's - Basic BSN
Campus Based - Visit Website
The University of Wyoming's Basic BSN program offers a dynamic four-year nursing education experience in Laramie, characterized by exceptional academic preparation and consistent high NCLEX pass rates. With pass rates ranging from 80.85% to 100% across recent years, students receive comprehensive training through strategic clinical placements in Laramie and Cheyenne. Prospective students should expect a competitive admission process that considers both freshman and transfer applicants. While specific entrance exam requirements are not detailed, the program emphasizes hands-on learning, state-of-the-art facilities, and robust financial aid opportunities. Military-friendly policies enhance the program's accessibility, preparing graduates for successful, versatile nursing careers with strong foundational skills and clinical competencies.
- Four-year on-campus program.
- State-of-the-art learning facilities.
- Clinical placements in Laramie and Cheyenne.
- Admission options for freshmen and non-freshmen.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Small school atmosphere.
- Financial aid available.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Comprehensive nursing education.
- Accredited program.
Western Wyoming Community College
Rock Springs, WY - Public 4-Year - westernwyoming.edu
Associate - Nursing, ADN
Online & Campus Based - Visit Website
Western Wyoming Community College's Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) program offers a cutting-edge hybrid learning experience preparing future registered nurses. With consistently high NCLEX pass rates ranging from 90.63% to 97.30% between 2022-2024, students benefit from comprehensive healthcare education. The program uniquely blends face-to-face and online instruction, providing flexible learning pathways. Students must complete prerequisites in General Biology, Human Anatomy & Physiology, English Composition, and College Algebra. The curriculum emphasizes health promotion and complex illness care through concept-based learning. Clinical experiences are strategically designed across Western Wyoming's service area, ensuring students gain practical skills in diverse healthcare settings. The application period runs from January through March, with early applicants receiving priority consideration.
- Hybrid program delivery.
- High NCLEX pass rates.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Prerequisites required.
- January-March application period.
- Priority for early applicants.
- Face-to-face and distance learning.
- Lab and clinical on-site.
- Travel required for clinicals.
- Above national average outcomes.
Sheridan College-Northern Wyoming Community College District
Sheridan, WY - Public 2-Year - sheridan.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Northern Wyoming Community College District's Associate Degree in Nursing provides an exceptional pathway into healthcare, with impressive NCLEX pass rates consistently ranging from 75% to 90% over recent years. Located in Sheridan, this program offers comprehensive nursing education featuring high-fidelity simulation training and extensive clinical experiences. Students benefit from hands-on learning environments that prepare them for real-world healthcare challenges. The program emphasizes practical skills and theoretical knowledge, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to take the NCLEX-RN exam. With promising job growth projections and opportunities for scholarships, this ADN program represents an excellent entry point for aspiring nurses seeking a robust and supportive educational experience in Wyoming's healthcare landscape.
- Hands-on simulation training.
- NCLEX-RN eligibility.
- Clinical experience included.
- Scholarships available.
- High job growth rate.
Eastern Wyoming College
Torrington, WY - Public 2-Year - ewc.wy.edu
Associate - Nursing, ADN
Campus Based - Visit Website
Eastern Wyoming College's Associate Degree in Nursing program offers an exceptional pathway for aspiring registered nurses. With a consistently improving NCLEX pass rate ranging from 50% to 100% in recent years, the program demonstrates strong student preparation. Located in Torrington, this ACEN-accredited two-year program emphasizes comprehensive nursing education covering health promotion, chronic and acute illness care. Students must meet prerequisites including biology, English, algebra, and human anatomy, with a minimum 2.5 GPA requirement. The program strategically prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam through a blend of rigorous coursework and practical clinical experiences. Financial aid options enhance accessibility, making this program attractive for diverse student backgrounds seeking a robust nursing education.
- ACEN Accredited program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- 2-year program duration.
- Campus-based learning.
- Requires 2.5 GPA for admission.
- Includes human anatomy prerequisite.
- Covers chronic and acute illness care.
- Financial aid options available.
- Starts every two years.
- Combines coursework with practical experience.
Wyoming Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
Are you ready to take the first steps toward becoming a registered nurse but unsure where to begin? The path you choose will largely depend on your professional aspirations and current educational background. Many aspiring nurses in Wyoming opt for an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) because of their relatively low cost and efficient timelines. Explore the distinctions between these options and other nursing pathways in the sections below to find the best fit for your goals.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
If you’re new to the field of nursing and seeking the quickest path to start your career, an Associate's Degree in Nursing (ADN) might be your best option. ADN programs, along with nursing diplomas, typically take one to two years to complete, making them ideal for those eager to enter the workforce quickly. For those who already have experience as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN), enrolling in an LPN to RN bridge program can accelerate your journey, allowing you to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) in less time.
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Wyoming include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
---|---|---|---|
ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Wyoming.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
At the entry level, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is often the most appealing degree to employers, as it provides comprehensive education and training. A traditional BSN program typically takes about four years to complete. However, if you already have nursing experience and hold an RN license, an RN to BSN program offers a faster route to earning your degree. For individuals with a bachelor's degree in another field who wish to transition into nursing, Accelerated BSN programs are an excellent option, allowing you to pivot into the profession in a shorter timeframe.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Wyoming typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
---|---|---|---|
Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
Wyoming RN to BSN programs can be a real lifeline to nurses who are already working in the field and want to secure a little more training. If you have an ADN, an RN license, and a little experience in the field, you can enroll in this bridge program and get your BSN degree in only two years. This is around half the time that it takes to complete a traditional BSN program.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Some students may decide later on in their careers that nursing might be a better fit. If you have a bachelor’s degree already and you’d like to switch your major to nursing, you can easily do this through a Wyoming ABSN program which can take as little as a year to complete.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
For some students, graduate school is the ultimate goal. A Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or even a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) are all great options for students looking to increase their value as a job applicant along with higher salaries and more independence. The typical admissions requirements for nursing graduate programs are a BSN (or higher) and an RN license.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Wyoming:
- Wyoming Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Wyoming MSN Program
- Wyoming RN to MSN Programs
- Wyoming Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Wyoming DNP Programs
Getting an RN License in Wyoming
Following your education, getting licensed as an RN is a crucial step in your career. To become licensed in Wyoming, you’ll need to graduate with at least an ADN, pass the NCLEX-RN exam, and submit an application to the Wyoming State Board of Nursing. After you’re licensed, you’ll need to complete continuing education to keep your license current and meet the state’s renewal requirements.
Requirements for RN Licensure in Wyoming
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Wyoming Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
Crucial to receiving licensure is graduating from an accredited program. RN program accreditation in the US is handled by both the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If a program is accredited by one of these two programs, it means that it has passed the state’s requirements concerning training and curriculum. If it has not been accredited, you will not be able to get licensed upon graduation.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Wyoming
List of Nursing Schools in Wyoming
Laramie, WY
University of Wyoming
- Bachelor's - Basic BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Four-year on-campus program.
- State-of-the-art learning facilities.
- Clinical placements in Laramie and Cheyenne.
- Admission options for freshmen and non-freshmen.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- Small school atmosphere.
- Financial aid available.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
Riverton, WY
Central Wyoming College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 65-credit program
- ACEN accredited
- Starts clinicals first semester
- Requires 2.5 GPA
- TEAS test required
- Immunizations needed
- Background check required
- Prepares for NCLEX
Rock Springs, WY
Western Wyoming Community College
- Associate - Nursing, ADN
Online & Campus Based - Website
- Hybrid program delivery.
- High NCLEX pass rates.
- Hands-on clinical experience.
- Prerequisites required.
- January-March application period.
- Priority for early applicants.
- Face-to-face and distance learning.
- Lab and clinical on-site.
Sheridan, WY
Sheridan College-Northern Wyoming Community College District
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Hands-on simulation training.
- NCLEX-RN eligibility.
- Clinical experience included.
- Scholarships available.
- High job growth rate.
Torrington, WY
Eastern Wyoming College
- Associate - Nursing, ADN
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN Accredited program.
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
- 2-year program duration.
- Campus-based learning.
- Requires 2.5 GPA for admission.
- Includes human anatomy prerequisite.
- Covers chronic and acute illness care.
- Financial aid options available.
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